MOSS POINT, Miss. -- Police in Moss Point are investigating an armed robbery and shooting at A & A Food Mart Gas Station, according to Chief Brandon Ashley.

The incident happened just after 1 a.m. Wednesday morning when police responded to scene and found a man bleeding from a gunshot wound to the abdomen.

According to the victim, the suspect is a young black male wearing a white "Aeropostale" hooded sweatshirt and blue jeans. The assailant walked in displaying a handgun demanding money from the register.

The victim, according to police also brandished his firearm and gunfire was exchanged between he and the suspect. The suspect fled the store on foot, meanwhile, the victim was transported to Singing River Hospital where he was immediately rushed into surgery.

At this time, the condition of the store clerk is critical.

Police are asking for anyone with information about the incident to contact Detective Kimberlee Snowden or MPPD at 228-475-1711, Mississippi Coast Crimestoppers at 800-787-5898 or visit their website at mscoastcrimestoppers.com.